What is the Tankless Water Heater Installation Process?

Keeping up with rising energy costs and hot water demands can be a struggle, especially if you’re stuck with an old water heater that runs constantly and takes up too much space. That’s why more homeowners in Louisiana are switching to smarter solutions. 

Tankless water heater installation gives you hot water on demand, lowers your monthly bills, and frees up space with its sleek design. You also get a longer-lasting system that’s built for performance. From finding the right unit to permits, cost breakdowns, and expert installation, everything you need to know is right here.

Tankless Water Heater Installation: Understanding the Process

If you’re tired of running out of hot water or paying for energy you’re not using, switching to a tankless system just makes sense. Unlike old-school water heaters that heat water all day, whether you need it or not, a tankless water heater only kicks in when you turn on the tap. You get hot water instantly, without the waste or the wait.

In Louisiana, where the weather’s humid and utility bills are already sky-high, that kind of efficiency matters. Local building codes, energy needs, and water usage patterns make tankless systems a smarter choice for homeowners looking to cut costs and save space.

Begin With a Professional Tankless Water Heater Assessment

Every installation starts with a detailed home evaluation. A licensed plumber checks your daily hot water needs, how many bathrooms and appliances use hot water, your current system (gas or electric), and space availability for venting.

Why is this important? Because the size of your new unit—measured in gallons per minute (GPM)—must match your demand. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water daily can save up to 34% on energy with tankless units.

Secure Permits for Installation in Louisiana

Don’t skip this step. Most parishes and cities in Louisiana require:
Plumbing permits
Electrical permits (for electric or hybrid systems)
Mechanical permits (for venting work)

Working with a contractor familiar with Louisiana’s building codes and Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors ensures you stay compliant and avoid fines.

Old Water Heater Removal

Next, your current water heater gets safely disconnected. This includes turning off the power or gas, shutting off the water line, and carefully removing the old unit. We handle proper disposal following Louisiana DEQ guidelines.

Choosing and Installing the New Tankless Water Heater Unit

Now we help you pick the best unit for your home. We look at:
Flow rate (how much hot water you need at once)
Fuel type (gas or electric)
Installation location (indoor or outdoor)
Brand quality (Rinnai, Noritz, and Navien are solid picks)

We mount the unit securely, then connect it to your hot and cold water pipes. If it’s a gas unit, we connect the supply line. If it’s electric, we hook up the electrical panel. Condensing units also need a drainage setup.

We always recommend high-efficiency systems with ENERGY STAR ratings so you can start saving from day one.

Tankless Water Heater Electrical Requirements

For electric systems, you’ll likely need:
A dedicated circuit
120–150 amps of electrical capacity
GFCI protection
A 240V power supply

Some homes may need an electrical panel upgrade. A licensed electrician will handle this part to meet National Electrical Code (NEC) standards. You can learn more about tankless water heater power needs.

Gas Line Considerations

Gas tankless systems need serious power—often 120,000 to 199,000 BTUs. That may mean upgrading gas lines. We pressure test everything and install safety shut-off valves and CO detectors to meet all safety codes.

Venting and Exhaust Setup

Proper venting is critical. Gas systems require either stainless steel or concentric vent pipes. We’ll set up either horizontal or vertical vents depending on your home’s layout. If you’re using a condensing unit, we also install drain lines and neutralizers to manage condensation.

Vent sealing is a big deal. Poor sealing can lead to dangerous backdrafting or mold issues—neither of which you want to mess with.

Final Testing and System Checkup

Before we wrap up, we test everything:
Check for leaks in gas and water lines
Power up the system
Set and calibrate the water temperature
Flush the system to remove debris

We walk you through how it all works and how to keep it running. Many units come with smart features like Wi-Fi controls, and we’ll help you get set up.

Regular maintenance is the key to long-term performance. Learn how to care for your new system in our tankless water heater maintenance guide.

Cost of Tankless Water Heaters in Louisiana

If you’re planning to install a tankless water heater, you’re probably wondering how much you’ll need to spend. The truth is, the total price depends on a few different pieces, mainly the unit itself and how complex the installation is.

Here’s a quick breakdown of average costs in Louisiana:
Electric tankless units run between $500 and $1,500
Gas tankless units cost about $1,000 to $2,500
Installation ranges from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the scope of work

Keep in mind, prices can vary depending on where you live. Homes in older neighborhoods may need more upgrades, and some parishes charge higher permit fees than others. Your home’s layout and how easy it is to access plumbing and electrical systems also play a big role.

To see if this investment makes sense for your property, read more about the cost and benefits of going tankless.

Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost Factors

There’s no one-size-fits-all price, and here’s why:
Type of unit – Condensing units are more efficient but cost more upfront than non-condensing models.
Brand and model – Higher-end systems come with better features and warranties, but they also raise the price.
Gas or electrical work – If your home needs a new gas line or electrical panel upgrade, that adds to the cost.
Venting setup – More complex venting means more materials and labor.
Permit and inspection fees – These vary depending on your city or parish.
Install location – Mounting the unit on an outside wall is easier (and cheaper) than squeezing it into a basement.
Plumbing upgrades – Rerouting pipes or replacing valves also increases costs.

While the upfront price may seem steep, the long-term gains are real. You’ll get a system that lasts over 20 years, saves on energy bills, and even boosts your home’s resale value. Here’s why it’s worth the investment for Louisiana homes.

One word of caution—don’t go the DIY route. Unlicensed work can void warranties, fail inspections, and lead to safety issues. When you bring in professionals, you reduce surprises, avoid costly rework, and get it done right the first time.

Get Unlimited Hot Water: Professional Tankless Setup for Your Needs

Platinum Plumbing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured right here in Louisiana. With years of hands-on experience, we install both gas and electric tankless systems—and take care of everything from venting to electrical upgrades and maintenance. Schedule your tankless water heater installation.

Here’s what you can expect:
In-depth assessments
Personalized system recommendations
Clear, upfront pricing
Flexible financing options

We know Louisiana homes, codes, and permit requirements like the back of our hand. You’ll get reliable service, fast responses, and access to long-term maintenance plans.

We’re not here for quick installs—we’re here to make sure your system works great for years. Contact us now to schedule your free in-home consultation.